8 Surprisingly Beneficial Veggies for the Elderly

By Kevin McClarren, 9:00 am on June 14, 2017

Fresh produce should be the foundation of a healthy diet, but many seniors get bored with eating vegetables like peas and carrots on a daily basis. Here is a look at eight unusual and underrated veggies that can boost your loved one’s health and wellbeing.

1. Watercress

This leafy green vegetable grows near moving water sources such as creeks and streams. Even though it is packed with vitamins and minerals, many people use it only as a garnish. A single cup of watercress contains almost 100 percent of a senior’s daily requirement for vitamin K, potassium, and calcium.

Due to other responsibilities, family caregivers may not always have time to prepare healthy meals for their loved ones. Families who need help caring for a senior loved one can turn to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of Bridgewater, New Jersey, in-home care. Services available in our customizable care plans include meal prep, mental and social stimulation, assistance with personal hygiene tasks, and much more.

2. Arame

The Japanese diet is filled with dozens of unique foods such as arame. This type of seaweed can now be found in most grocery stores, and it is full of omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and phytonutrients. Arame adds flavor and texture to soups, salads, and other dishes.

3. Artichokes

Many people enjoy eating artichoke leaves and hearts that have been slathered with butter and cream sauces. Artichoke can be cooked in many different ways, and it can be extremely delicious when roasted. This versatile veggie is full of potassium, fiber, and folate.

4. Daikons

Radishes are among the most nutrient-dense vegetables, but they can be difficult to cook. Many traditional Chinese dishes and beverages contain a type of radish called a daikon because it has nutrients that are known to alleviate fevers and reduce inflammation.

5. Bok Choy

Also referred to as Chinese white cabbage, bok choy is a relatively mild cruciferous vegetable. It can be used in place of other varieties of cabbage and lettuce that contain relatively few vitamins and minerals.

Seniors who do not get sufficient vitamin A and potassium should try to steam or fry bok choy a few times a week. If your aging loved one needs occasional help with bathing, grooming, cooking, or other basic household tasks, or if you need time to attend to important personal matters, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of live-in and respite care. Bridgewater seniors can maintain their independence while living at home with the help of our reliable respite caregivers.

6. Collard Greens

If you have to add just one vegetable to a dish you’re serving to your loved one, consider collard greens. A recent study published in Nutrition Research found that collard greens are some of the most nutrient-dense vegetables in the world. Some of the nutrients found in collard greens have also been associated with lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.

7. Chard

Type 2 diabetes is one of the most common health conditions among the elderly, and it can drastically reduce a senior’s quality of life as well as his or her life expectancy. Chard contains 13 different antioxidants that can reduce the risk of diabetes, lower insulin resistance, and enhance blood glucose regulation.

8. Cauliflower

Steamed or roasted cauliflower is one of the most nutritious veggies seniors can add to their diets. The vegetable contains dozens of vitamins and minerals, and it is also packed with an anti-cancer substance known as a glucosinolate.

For many seniors in Bridgewater, New Jersey, live-in care is an essential component of aging in place safely and comfortably. However, it’s important for them to have caregivers they can trust and rely on. At Home Care Assistance, we extensively screen all of our live-in and 24-hour caregivers and only hire those who have experience in the senior home care industry. Our strict requirements ensure seniors can remain in the comfort of home with a reduced risk of injury or serious illness. If your elderly loved one needs assistance with meal preparation and other daily tasks or requires extensive 24-hour care, give us a call at 908.450.9400 today.